Napster signs deal with Channel 4 for branded programming

by Jennifer Whitehead, Brand Republic 05-Apr-05, 11:00

LONDON - Music download service Napster has signed a deal with Channel 4 to distribute a series of programmes about pop and rock musicians, starting with a documentary about Garbage, the band fronted by Shirley Manson.

The move is seen as the first step by Napster to move into video downloads -- a development that has been hinted at by chairman and chief executive Chris Gorog.

Known as Napster Live, the series comprises six 11-minute programmes, which will screen as part of Channel 4's T4 youth and music programming.

The first broadcast will be at midnight on Saturday April 16, with Garbage performing two songs, along with an interview, biography and a competition. The band's new album 'Bleed Like Me' has just been released while the new single 'Why Do You Love Me' is out this week.

Music from the programmes will be made available to download for Napster subscribers.

Leanne Sharman, vice-president of Napster, said: "To extend the Napster experience to TV is the logical next step in the UK rollout of the brand."

Other confirmed acts for the series include The Subways and Estelle.

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